Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Pinch me...

I've gotten so far behind. Here's a quick update.

Went to Winfield had more fun than seemed possible came home decided my quality of life is more important than anything so got the C-leg ... what? Yes, I did it. As in, I got out the checkbook and started signing. I have no right to appeal unless I pay out of pocket, so this really begins the process. How is it? Nothing short of a miracle. It will take a few weeks for me to "settle in" to the new socket but already it's so far and above what I've put up with for a year that I've worn myself out. "Look - I can sit, stand, move, walk without thinking or looking at the ground!" When I get it under control, I'll post a video and some photos.

But, now for the really big news.

A friend sent my blog to another friend who contacted the local "Call for Action" reporter who called me about a potential story. That resulted in me contacting our (work) public affairs director who contacted the director of KHPA and, after months of nonsense and frustration. I finally, FINALLY got the straight story. It took a total of 4 women a matter of 6 hours to cut to the chase! The director of KHPA, Marci Nielsen, called, apologized and listened. KHPA and HCC are going to meet in December to discuss revising their prosthetic policy to match that of Medicare (the industry standard) which includes electronic components. If they have all their ducks in a row, this could be decided as early as December '08 and no later than April '09.

Given what I know about Medicare coverage, there is a very good chance that this will pass. I'm afraid to say much more for fear of jinxing it, but this most informative, cohesive and encouraging news I've received to date!

Thank you - all of you - for your support and the "leg up." It's not over but I think the ball is finally rolling in the right direction! Of course, you're all welcome to join me at the meeting in December!